Interview with Fang Cheng Dong

Fang Cheng Dong ("FCD") interviewed on Tuesday, 31 December.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

FCD : Yes, after I graduated from my university, I worked in Newplan (Shenzhen) company as a product designer for five years. Then I joined GAC Group as an exterior designer for transportation design. During these 8 years, I participated in many concept and production vehicles. Currently, as the exterior director of GAC flying car, I keep to find the new solution for our travel and lifestyle in future.

How did you become a designer?

FCD : I have always been passionate about finding a solution with aesthetic, which is the fundamental driving force that makes me become a designer, because I firmly believe that design can make the world and people's lives better and better.

What is your day to day look like?

FCD : Every day before I start working, I will let myself think for a while, letting my design mind slowly clear up, and it will begin to stretch out its branches like a big tree in the early morning.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

FCD : Design trends depend on popular technologies and emerging concepts. This information can be obtained from many channels. Trends are always changing and will only be used as a reference. What is more important is the people who can create trends.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

FCD : Good design is simple, because simplicity means more effective problem solving, simpler production processes, and more economical and fully utilized resources.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

FCD : When I think it can't be get much more better.

Who is your favourite designer?

FCD : Mr. Dieter Rams, the 10 design principles from him benefit me for a lifetime.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

FCD : A’Design Award let a lot of people know about my design projects, and also allowed me to learn more design concepts and culture of designers from different countries. The award ceremony of the A’Design Award competition is the best memory for me. All of these have greatly promoted my design career.